How to Make Dulce De Leche Sandwich Cookies (Alfajores)
Have you ever tasted a cookie so soft it practically melts in your mouth? If not, let us introduce you to Alfajores—the iconic South American sandwich cookie that’s about to steal your heart. With origins tracing back to Moorish Spain and a delicious reinvention in Latin America, alfajores have evolved into a beloved treat across Argentina, Peru, and beyond. These buttery, crumbly cookies are filled with rich dulce de leche and rolled in shredded coconut, offering a bite that’s sweet, creamy, and completely unforgettable. So if you’ve wandered through Buenos Aires or just love a good cookie with your coffee, this alfajores recipe is a must-try—easy enough for beginners and impressive enough for any dessert table.
How to Make Dulce De Leche Sandwich Cookies
Prep Time: 1 hour | Cook Time: 8 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 20 cookies | Cuisine: South American
Ingredients
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- ¾ cup unsalted butter (room temperature)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest (freshly grated)
- ⅔ cup granulated sugar
- 3 egg yolks
- 2 tablespoons vanilla extract
- 1¼ cups cornstarch
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- 1 cup dulce de leche (homemade or store-bought)
- ½ cup shredded coconut (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the room-temperature butter, lemon zest, and sugar. Beat with an immersion blender with a whisk head until the mixture is light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
- Beat in the egg yolks one at a time, followed by the vanilla extract. Continue mixing until fully incorporated.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the cornstarch, flour, baking powder, and salt using a Zulay Kitchen Balloon Whisk.
- Gradually add the dry mixture to the wet mixture. Stir until a soft dough forms. You can use a silicone spatula or your hands for the final mix.
- Form the dough into a disk and wrap it tightly in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat.
- On a lightly floured surface, roll the dough to about ¼ inch thickness. Use a round cookie cutter (around 2-inch diameter) to cut the cookies.
8. Place the cookies onto the prepared baking sheet and bake for 8 minutes, rotating the tray halfway through. The cookies should remain pale and not brown. Let them cool completely.
9. Spread about a teaspoon of dulce de leche onto the flat side of one cookie. Sandwich with another cookie and gently press them together.
10. Roll the edges of the filled cookies in shredded coconut. Repeat with remaining cookies. Enjoy with coffee, tea, or just on their own!
Tips, Variations, and Customization Ideas
Make it Gluten-Free
Simply substitute the all-purpose flour with your favorite 1:1 gluten-free flour blend. Look for one that includes xanthan gum for the best structure and texture. The cornstarch already gives alfajores that signature crumbly melt-in-your-mouth bite, so a gluten-free swap won’t compromise the magic. Just be sure to chill your dough well so it’s easy to roll and cut.
Chocolate-Coated Alfajores
Want to turn your alfajores into a decadent dessert worthy of a pastry shop? After filling and assembling the cookies, dip each one halfway—or fully—into melted dark or milk chocolate. Let them set on a parchment-lined baking sheet until the chocolate hardens. This variation is especially popular in Argentina and adds a luxurious twist to an already irresistible treat.
No Coconut? No Problem
If shredded coconut isn’t your thing (or you simply don’t have any on hand), there are a few easy alternatives. You can skip the coating altogether and enjoy your alfajores as-is, or dust the edges with powdered sugar for a more traditional, bakery-style presentation.
Store-Bought Shortcut
While homemade dulce de leche is a wonderful weekend project (especially when made by simmering sweetened condensed milk for hours), let’s be honest—sometimes convenience wins. Store-bought dulce de leche works beautifully in this recipe and can usually be found in the international aisle of most grocery stores or online. Just stir it before using it to make sure it’s smooth and easy to spread.
Make Your Own Alfajores Today!
Baking Alfajores cookies is more than just a recipe—it's a way to bring the warmth and charm of Latin American kitchens into your home. With their melt-in-your-mouth texture and dreamy caramel filling, these cookies are bound to be your new go-to dessert.
Let us know if you try this recipe! Share your photos on Instagram and tag us @zulay_kitchen with #kitchenhappiness—we’d love to see your cookie creations! Looking for more recipes like this one? Explore more sweets, kitchen hacks, and easy family meals over at Zulay Kitchen!
Other Kitchen Tools You’ll Love
Want to make baking these Alfajores cookies even more enjoyable (and mess-free)? These top-rated kitchen tools from Zulay Kitchen will take your cookie game to the next level:
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- Silicone Baking Mat – Ditch the parchment paper! Our non-stick baking mat ensures even baking, easy cleanup, and perfect golden bottoms every time. It’s a must-have for any cookie lover.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons Set – Precision matters in baking, and this complete set takes out the guesswork. Durable, easy to clean, and beautifully designed to help you measure like a pro.
Ready to level up your baking setup? Explore these and more at Zulay Kitchen and bring some #KitchenHappiness into your home!
Frequently Asked Questions About Alfajores
What are alfajores made of?
Alfajores are traditional South American sandwich cookies typically made with butter, sugar, cornstarch, flour, and egg yolks. The dough is rolled out, cut into rounds, and baked until just set. They're then filled with creamy dulce de leche and often rolled in shredded coconut or powdered sugar. Some versions are dipped in chocolate. They're light, buttery, and delicious.
Can I make alfajores without cornstarch?
Cornstarch is what gives alfajores their signature melt-in-your-mouth texture. Without it, the cookies may turn out too firm or crumbly. However, if you're in a pinch, you can substitute with cake flour or try a mix of all-purpose flour and a bit of arrowroot powder to mimic the tender crumb.
How long do alfajores last?
Alfajores can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days. If you want them to last longer, keep them in the refrigerator for up to 10 days. You can also freeze unfilled cookies for up to a month. Assemble them with dulce de leche only when you’re ready to serve.
Are alfajores gluten-free?
Traditional alfajores are not gluten-free because they contain all-purpose flour. However, you can easily make a gluten-free version by using a gluten-free flour blend and ensuring your cornstarch is certified gluten-free. The texture may vary slightly but will still be delicious.
Can kids help make alfajores?
Absolutely! Kids love cutting the cookie dough with cookie cutters and assembling the cookies with dulce de leche. It’s a great opportunity for a weekend baking project or family holiday tradition. Just be sure an adult handles the baking and filling, as things can get sticky!
What’s the best way to serve alfajores?
Serve alfajores with a warm latte, espresso, or even a glass of cold milk. They’re also wonderful as part of a holiday cookie platter, wrapped in cellophane as edible gifts, or enjoyed on a cozy afternoon. The soft cookie texture and sweet filling make them a versatile favorite for all occasions.
